Spring 2017… I tripped down to Granville Island to see Merva first hand. I had been stalking the boat for quite a few years – particularly when I was upgrading the ‘Alder II’ – but had never seen it in person.
It was under her cover (a strong selling point).
I sold the Alder II because the shed came down in a storm and the marina owner did not want me to replace it. I really needed the shed for it because it was very much in a refit primarily on the exterior (having done most of the interior already). But the Merva has a cover and is not in a refit mode. Also; some hope of getting into the ‘Rita H. Pearl’ shed.
The crew boat sold and my 3 boat short list for a new boat was;
Rita H. Pearl
Large wood sail boat. The owner decided to offer it to the S.A.L.T.S. program and get the tax deduction rather than sell it to me. Valerie was relieved.
Sannox
This is similar to Merva in length and features. Its a bit older but hull and superstructure in great shape. Has more interior space than the Merva. Unfortunately; it has a gas engine and there is a small issue with the gear box. Can be had for half the price of the Merva – perhaps even less. I hope a friend of mine buys this one.
Merva
This dropped to 2nd choice when the ‘Rita H. Pearl’ became possible and then back to 1st when that did not pan out. But Valerie is much happier about this one.
I crawled under the cover and gave the boat a reasonable investigation.
